Maintenance of building structural systems

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to review the current literature on maintenance of building structural systems. It emphasises the importance of maintenance as an item for consideration from the beginning of the conceptual design stage. Building sustainability concept is generally understood to have better energy efficiency focus and maintenance of structural components ensures they serve their designed service life and beyond. The conventional design approach considers structural maintenance during the “product use” phase. This paper argues that if the accessibility of the building and maintenance (inspection, repair and retrofitting) are considered from the early conceptual design stage, it would save resources and maintenance cost. Case studies of buildings subject to earthquake loading and corrosion and their maintenance are presented.